THE Royal College of Nursing (RCN) launched the biggest strike in its 106-year history today, warning that an NHS staff exodus is “costing patients their lives.”

Drivers showed support for thousands of striking hospital and health trust staff across England, Wales and Northern Ireland by beeping their horns and cheering from car windows, while members of the public brought chocolates to picket lines nationwide.

RCN general secretary Pat Cullen said the 24-hour walkout, set to be followed by a second next Tuesday, was a “tragic day for nursing and patients.”